Partying at a festival this summer? We pick the best places for some R & R after all the rock ‘n’ roll.
Post-Mosh Wash
Amanemu, Shima
If you’ve headbanged your way to a headache at the Fuji Rock Festival, jump on an hour-long flight to recuperate at Aman’s first onsen (hot spring) resort. In the hills of Ise Shima National Park, this coastal sanctuary is a temple to cleansing and relaxation. Rid yourself of that mosh-pit dust with a mineral-rich thermal spa in your suite’s own private onsen or flop in the freshwater infinity pool. Seeking some culture to offset the weekend of hedonism? Check out the nearby Shinto site of Ise Grand Shrine or visit female Japanese pearl divers—ama—at their amagoya huts. As the region famous for producing Matsusaka beef, the Wagyu dishes on the menu are not to be missed. aman.com/resorts/amanemu
Hotel California
The London, West Hollywood
Looking to continue the celeb-spotting after Coachella? Check into this newly renovated super chic oasis in the heart of bustling Hollywood. Sip negronis in your private cabana by the rooftop pool while admiring stunning views of Beverly Hills and LA or, if you’re lucky, spot DiCaprio in his swimmers. For the ultimate post-party pampering, book the Vivienne Westwood-inspired penthouse suite, which has its own rooftop terrace and comes with in-suite massage and beauty services, a hookah and cigar menu, private rooftop dinners from the executive chef and access to private cabanas at the rooftop pool. Those looking to extend their adventures can opt to take a private helicopter tour of LA, finishing at Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyard, or hop on a private jet to dinner in one of the Napa Valley’s wineries. Well, you’ve got to retox before you detox, right? thelondonwesthollywood.com
Ultra Chilled
Nai Harn, Phuket
Looking for somewhere to unwind after Ultra in Bangkok? Head to the former Royal Phuket Yacht Club, which was relaunched in December as The Nai Harn after a complete refurbishment. On beautiful Nai Harn beach—recently named best beach in Thailand by Trip Advisor—the hotel offers 130 luxurious rooms and suites with panoramic sea views. Bask in the Andaman sunsets at Rock Salt restaurant while sipping a cocktail designed by The Savoy’s former head barman, or use the “Press for Champagne” button on your private terrace. Need anything else? Just text your personal butler, who is on hand 24/7 to attend to your every need. thenaiharn.com
Bucolic Bonanza
Soho Farmhouse, Oxfordshire
Culture-vulturing at the Hay literary festival or gallivanting at Glastonbury? Drop by Nick Jones’ 15th venture, where farm buildings and lakeside log cabins set on 40ha of rolling countryside play host to horse and cart rides, a cinema, tennis and even an ice rink. The Farm Deli—with its own wine cellar, and pickle and curing rooms—and lakeside Japanese restaurant provide ample pre- and post-festival fortification. Feeling lazy? Order hangover-curing breakfasts and cocktails delivered to your cabin door by a vintage milk float. Sip a pre-fest pint in your Soho Farmhouse wellies at the pub, or enjoy a sociable cleanse in one of the two-person spa baths at the spa island (post-Glasto guests are excused for skipping the mud room). sohofarmhouse.com
Festival Barometer
Are you a festival pro? Have a gander below for what’s hot and not.
Festi-Baller
Walkie-Talkies — Absolutely not joking here. Phone reception at music festivals is notoriously dodgy and these old-school gizmos have great range. Zero Instagramming potential, but tune in to the right channel and get the backstage goss.
Glamping — Whether a 5* Burning Man camp, luxury yurt or full-blown inn a la the Pop-Up Hotel at Glastonbury ... No one likes sitting in a soggy tent, so get organised and do the right thing. You know you want to.
Groupies — Think about it. You love their music, you know the middle name of their pet goldfish ... What could be better than hanging out backstage with the band? Get creative with your method of approach—panty-hurling optional.
Fest-Failure
Native American Headdresses — Never ever is this acceptable. It’s offensive. In fact, cultural appropriation of all sorts is off the menu. Bin the bindis gals and smother your face in Swarovski crystals instead.
Crowd-Surfing — You may have consumed your bodyweight in rum punch, be wearing silver trousers and feel invincible, but you are not Iggy Pop, nor are you R Kelly. You may believe you can fly, but let’s not put it to the test.
Flower Crowns — Once a kooky adornment inspired by the hippies of the ’70s, this headgear has become less magical, more mass market. You’re honestly better off in a baseball cap.